What is S.T.A.R.S.?
S.T.A.R.S. is a non-profit organization that offers adaptive riding opportunities for people with disabilities in the Brookings, SD area. Horseback riding and other horse-related activities provide a unique form of physical and emotional enrichment for those with unique abilities. The program is designed to not only teach basic horsemanship skills but also to benefit the riders physically as well as mentally and emotionally.
The horses are the "stars of S.T.A.R.S." and they facilitate core strengthening, balance & fine motor skills improvements, enhancing communication skills, boosting confidence and offers social opportunities with staff, volunteers, and other participants.
The horse's movements mimic the motions of the human body. This improves the rider's range of motion, flexibility, posture, and muscle strength. Even the heat of the horse can help relax and loosen unused muscles. Participants gain confidence and increased self-esteem by forming bonds with the horses and learning to "control" an animal many times their size. Riders experience freedom from walkers or wheelchairs for a brief time. The interactions with staff and volunteers brings joyful social relationships the riders look forward to each week during their session.
We can accomodate a wide variety of disabilities and differently abled individuals. Disbled veterans are encouraged to participate!
The horses are the "stars of S.T.A.R.S." and they facilitate core strengthening, balance & fine motor skills improvements, enhancing communication skills, boosting confidence and offers social opportunities with staff, volunteers, and other participants.
The horse's movements mimic the motions of the human body. This improves the rider's range of motion, flexibility, posture, and muscle strength. Even the heat of the horse can help relax and loosen unused muscles. Participants gain confidence and increased self-esteem by forming bonds with the horses and learning to "control" an animal many times their size. Riders experience freedom from walkers or wheelchairs for a brief time. The interactions with staff and volunteers brings joyful social relationships the riders look forward to each week during their session.
We can accomodate a wide variety of disabilities and differently abled individuals. Disbled veterans are encouraged to participate!
Mission Statement
STARS is a program of the Brookings Area Interagency Council
"Creating lasting experiences for individuals with disabilities."
The Brookings Area Interagency Council in partnership with other agencies and organizations strives to strengthen families and individuals with disabilities in the Brookings Community by creating opportunities and providing access to programs to meet their individual, family, social, recreational, and therapeutic needs.
"Creating lasting experiences for individuals with disabilities."
The Brookings Area Interagency Council in partnership with other agencies and organizations strives to strengthen families and individuals with disabilities in the Brookings Community by creating opportunities and providing access to programs to meet their individual, family, social, recreational, and therapeutic needs.